Hiring a private investigator can seem like the perfect solution when you need answers. Whether you’re trying to catch a cheating spouse, gather evidence for a legal case or conduct a background check, a PI offers professional expertise in uncovering hidden information.
However, before you hire one, it’s essential to understand if there are any risks involved. In this article, we’ll explore the key risks of hiring a private investigator and how you can minimise them to make an informed decision.
1. Legal risks
One of the biggest concerns when hiring a PI is whether their methods comply with the law. While professional investigators should operate within legal boundaries, some may engage in questionable or even illegal tactics, putting both themselves and their clients at risk.
Privacy laws & data protection
Private investigators must abide by data protection and privacy laws, such as the UK’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or similar laws in other regions. If a PI unlawfully obtains personal data – such as hacking into emails or accessing private financial records – you could be held legally responsible as their client.
Illegal surveillance & wiretapping
While surveillance is a common PI technique, certain forms of monitoring – like wiretapping, recording phone calls without consent or placing GPS trackers on vehicles – can be illegal depending on the jurisdiction. If a PI engages in these activities and gets caught, you might face legal consequences or see any evidence they collect deemed inadmissible in court.
Unregulated investigators
Unlike some other countries, the UK does not currently require private investigators to hold a government-issued licence. This means that virtually anyone can call themselves a private investigator, regardless of their training or experience. While there are reputable PIs who adhere to professional standards, there is no official regulatory body enforcing legal or ethical conduct.
Hiring an unregulated investigator comes with risks:
- Lack of accountability – Without a licensing system, there’s no guarantee the investigator has the necessary skills or abides by the law.
- Legal consequences – If a PI uses illegal methods (e.g., hacking, unlawful surveillance), you could be held responsible as their client.
- Unreliable evidence – Any evidence obtained improperly may not be admissible in court, making the investigation a waste of time and money.
To protect yourself, always choose a PI who is a member of a recognised professional body, such as the Association of British Investigators (ABI) or The Institute of Professional Investigators (IPI). These organisations set ethical and professional standards, helping ensure you work with a reputable investigator.
Admissibility of Evidence in Court
If you’re hiring a PI to gather evidence for a legal case, it’s crucial to ensure their methods are lawful. Courts will not accept illegally obtained evidence, which means that even if your PI uncovers the truth, it may be completely useless in a legal battle.
2. Ethical concerns
Beyond the legal risks, hiring a PI also raises ethical questions. While investigators operate within a grey area of privacy and surveillance, some practices may cross moral lines.
Invasion of privacy
Even when done legally, hiring a PI to investigate someone’s private life – especially without their knowledge – raises ethical concerns. Would you be comfortable if someone did the same to you? If you’re considering hiring a PI for personal matters, such as a spouse’s infidelity, it’s worth questioning whether the potential emotional impact justifies the intrusion.
Misinformation & deceptive tactics
Some investigators may resort to unethical methods, such as impersonating people to gain information or misleading their subjects. These tactics might yield results, but they can also lead to unreliable or manipulated information.
Moral implications of personal investigations
Many people hire PIs to track partners, friends or colleagues, but doing so without just cause can be ethically questionable. If your motivation is based on suspicion rather than concrete evidence, you may be violating someone’s personal boundaries unnecessarily.
3. Financial Risks
Hiring a private investigator can be expensive and there’s no guarantee that you’ll get the results you want. Many people assume that PIs will quickly uncover definitive proof, but investigations can be time-consuming, complex and sometimes inconclusive. Before hiring one, it’s important to consider the financial risks involved.
No guaranteed outcome
Investigations can take days or even weeks to complete, leading to high costs. Even after spending a significant amount of money, there’s no assurance that the PI will find the information you’re looking for. Be careful of hiring any investigator that promises guaranteed results.
Hidden fees & unexpected expenses
Some PI agencies may advertise low rates but add extra charges for things like travel expenses, special equipment or additional hours beyond the initial agreement. Without a clear contract, you could end up paying much more than expected. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of costs upfront to avoid surprises.
Scams & fraudulent investigators
Unfortunately, not all private investigators are legitimate. Some scammers prey on desperate clients, promising quick results but failing to deliver. Others may fabricate evidence or exaggerate findings to extend their services and charge more money. To protect yourself, always verify a PI’s credentials, check online reviews and ask for references before hiring them.
4. Emotional & psychological risks
Hiring a PI isn’t just a financial and legal decision – it can also take a significant emotional toll. The information a PI uncovers may be distressing and the process itself can cause anxiety and stress.
Unwanted truths & emotional distress
Many people hire PIs because they suspect a spouse is cheating, an employee is stealing or a friend is being dishonest. However, are you truly prepared for the answers? If the PI confirms your suspicions, the emotional fallout could be devastating. Even if they find nothing, doubts and paranoia may linger.
False expectations & lack of closure
Some people expect private investigators to uncover the absolute truth, but real-life investigations aren’t like movies. Evidence may be inconclusive, partial or open to interpretation. Clients who expect clear-cut answers might feel disappointed or frustrated when results are ambiguous.
Stress & anxiety during the investigation
Waiting for results can be nerve-wracking. Some cases take weeks or months to complete, leaving clients in a constant state of anticipation. The emotional burden of not knowing what the investigator will uncover – or when – can be overwhelming.
5. Reputational risks
Hiring a PI isn’t always a private matter. If the subject of the investigation finds out they are being watched or if word spreads, it could damage relationships and reputations.
Exposure of the investigation
While PIs are trained to operate discreetly, there’s always a risk that the target will become aware of the surveillance. If that happens, they may alter their behaviour, destroy evidence or take legal action for harassment or invasion of privacy.
Damage to personal & professional relationships
If a friend, partner or employee discovers that they’ve been investigated, it can create irreparable trust issues. A spouse may feel betrayed, a business partner might sever ties or an employer-employee relationship could become strained. Before hiring a PI, consider whether the potential damage to relationships is worth the risk.
Public scrutiny & media attention
In high-profile cases, hiring a PI can attract unwanted attention. If the investigation becomes public knowledge – especially if it involves celebrities, politicians or corporate figures – it could lead to negative press and reputational damage.
How to minimise risks when hiring a PI
If you decide to move forward with hiring a private investigator, there are steps you can take to reduce the risks and ensure you’re working with a reputable professional.
✅ Verify licensing & credentials – Check if the PI is licensed (where required) and has a proven track record. Look for industry accreditations and memberships in professional organisations.
✅ Read reviews & ask for references – Online reviews and past client testimonials can provide insight into the PI’s reliability and professionalism.
✅ Discuss legal & ethical boundaries – Ensure the investigator operates within the law and does not use unethical tactics. Ask how they gather information and whether their methods are legally sound.
✅ Get a written agreement – Have a formal contract outlining the scope of work, costs and confidentiality terms to avoid misunderstandings.
✅ Consider alternatives – In some cases, legal professionals, HR departments or digital security experts may offer alternative solutions that don’t involve hiring a PI.
Peace of mind starts with the right investigator
Hiring a private investigator can feel like stepping into a mystery novel – full of intrigue, secrets and the promise of hidden truths. But as we’ve explored, it also comes with risks. From legal complications to emotional turmoil, choosing the wrong investigator could do more harm than good. That’s why working with a trusted, professional and ethical agency is crucial.
At M19 Solutions, we understand the delicate nature of private investigations. Our team operates with the highest levels of discretion, integrity and professionalism to ensure that your case is handled legally, ethically and with complete confidentiality.
Whether you need corporate investigations, surveillance or personal inquiries, we take every measure to protect your privacy and provide reliable, court-admissible evidence – all while staying within the law.
If you’re considering hiring a PI but want to avoid the risks, M19 Solutions is the name you can trust. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and let’s discuss how we can help you get the answers you need – safely and discreetly.
📞 Call us at 0161 706 0057 or 📩 email info@m19solutions.co.uk to speak with our experts. Your privacy is our priority.
